1996 BMW 318i top, when initialized to go up, the top will operate normally and at a normal speed. However, when I attempt to lower the top, here is what happens: I release the latch, push the top just a slight way back, hit the switch and the rear section which has the window, will lift, the top will start to move slightly and stop. The body panel will not raise up. The lowering sequence stops at that point. In order to lower the top, I have to lower it manually. I am not a layman nor are any of my techs. I have a shop and am aware that there is a diagnostic tool which BMW has. I would rather keep the problem in house if possible.
At this point in time I am desperate for a solution. HELP!!!!!!!!!
Hi bunkeyh, try helping the top when it stops by continuing the movement in the open direction. if it continues operation you probably have bad convertible top straps. another tell-tell sign is if the rear section slams down on the cover or does not hold position. you should be able to reach your hands under the canvas and between the liner at the second bar of the top frame from the windshield to check for sagging or weak straps. in anycase the straps will need to be replaced.
hi bunkeyh, I would recommend taking a look atthe microswitch at the bend point on the frame when the rear section comes to a 90 degree. look at the mounting point on the driver's side and follow the electrical connectors. the switch is imput for top storage lid to know to open. also if you have not done so, initialize the top.
Hi bunkeyh, I'm glad that you found the problem. It can be hard sometimes trying to diagnose BMW convertibles without actually being at the vehicle. Thanks for your detailed information. As far as the bolt stripping out, it is sort of a common issue unfortunately. The best thing I would recommend is to patiently drill out the bolt. The head of the bolt is y-shaped at the head. Try to drill off the head first so that you can remove the rod. After the head is drilled out, center punch the stud and drill slowly, the stud portion is pretty hard material. If you order the bolt from the dealer, it will provide you with a good reference before drilling. As far as the price of the motor, they are expensive. I would shop dealers, as some parts deptartments are more than others. Let me know if you need any more help.
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Techicnaltec: I appreciate the response. Remember that in my description I noted that once I have released the top and started the lowering mode, the rear window frame will lift to the 90 degree position , the top will just barely begin to move, but the sequence stops. However, when you go to raise the top it operates without a problem, ruling out the motor which raises the panel as well as the linkages. The problem is that the lid will not raise in the lowering mode, which would be the next logical chain of events in the sequence to allow the top to lower into the body of the car and at that point the lid would close completing the sequence. The straps you are referring to do not appear to be sagging. My techs and I think it is electrical.
Any further thoughts on the problem?
Again, I appreciate the response.
technicaltec: I am sorry for not getting back sooner. I ended up taking it to a friends shop where he had a scanner which located the problem. The micro switch in the drive unit apparently is the problem. When we did re-initiate the top like you had said, it started working, however, it was not consistent in operation.
The drive unit is a whopping $564.72! Another sniglet I found is that in attempting to remove the arm in order to drop the drive unit out, the center bolt which is an allen head type and counter sunk is not wanting to budge. My tech has used an impact driver (the type you use with a hammer which is specifically for loosening bolts). Heat was tried (with a heat gun) and have even attempted catching the very edge with a chisel. NO LUCK!
Any suggestions? Is this possibly threaded to loosen clockwise?
AllData has no reference to it.
As far as ratings go, I would have to say that being on the right track and although not hitting the nail on the head, you inadvertently hit it any way. It's obvious you are familiar with the product. For this reason I feel you should get a 100%
It's not a bribe for more help (Hmm maybe it is) seriously, I appreciate the help and any more you can give me.
Thanks again.
technicaltec: I haven't been ignoring you, I have been preoccupied with a number of things going on around the shop and on the home front. I appreciate the advise on the removal of the bolt, we got it out. I have cobalt, reverse bits, and I use them in stages. As I increase them in size, the closer I got to the actual bolt size the greater the odds the bolt has of coming loose. This happened to be the case with this one. The main thing, is you better get it e hole dead straight with the center!
Thanks again.
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